N.H. committee's role in health care overhaul unclear

CONCORD, N.H. (AP) — With a key deadline nearing, it’s still unclear how much say New Hampshire lawmakers have over how the state implements the federal health care overhaul law.

Gov. Maggie Hassan has until Feb. 15 to declare the state’s intention to enter a partnership with the federal government, but members of a legislative oversight committee that met Monday believe she needs their permission before acting.

The state insurance and health commissioners are recommending that the state enter two types of partnerships that would make the state responsible for both regulating insurance companies and the plans they offer under the exchanges and helping consumers access the exchange. Insurance Commissioner Roger Sevigny says that would be in keeping with a state law requiring his office to retain as much regulatory authority as possible.